– Author – Anjana namboodiri
The day the NEET PG results came should have been the happiest day of my life till now; it was for a while but I could never really feel proud of myself. I got a 424 AIQ rank in NEET PG 2025. I should be on a high right? But when the excitement died down, in the middle of the night, I had a breakdown. Maybe it was a cry of relief or maybe a cry of anxiety about what lies ahead, I’m not exactly sure. I recently even saw a reel on Instagram about this, how someone said they can’t celebrate their achievements, because in their minds, it feels like it was an obligation to achieve it. And that really hit home.
And the feeling is universal, not just limited to healthcare workers either. The haunting question of what’s next. It originates from childhood with the question of “What do you want to become when you grow up?” I can’t even count the number of times I remember being asked this very question when I was small and I’m sure neither can you.
As a student who wants to pursue medicine in India, the answer to the “What Next” question is entrance exams- the dreaded NEET! Literal chills man. Also, if you are on a different path, like I’ve friends pursuing USMLE and PLAB, and wherever you are, it’s a struggle. What you need to know really is that you have to choose your struggle. The grass on the other side will always appear greener but do not loose yourself in this rat race. Take care of your physical and mental health.
MENTAL HEALTH– We ignore this so much and there is so much stigma associated with getting help for it. it is not easy getting counselling and therapy, because therapy takes time and constant effort. You have to unlearn and relearn the way you think and react. Reach out if you need help. It is the bravest thing to do.
So, to my fellow buddies wrestling with choosing a branch and a college, choose a place where you have support and talk to the people already in that particular branch and college. Make a thorough and informed decision. And to my friends who feel like they are stuck, just remember this quote, “Little by little, day by day, what is meant for you will find it’s way.”
And have hobbies. It could be as small as journaling or even doodling and colouring. Something to get a little bit of peace and quiet outside medicine.
Do not get sucked into the loop of this what next era. Remember to breathe and take care of yourself. You cannot save people if you are dead.